Contextual inquiry: how to plan, execute and analyse a site visit

Overview

Field studies are invaluable when you need to understand first-hand how users work or behave, the kinds of tasks users carry out and the variety of environments in which users operate. Real-world observation provides insights that user self reports or surveys can't provide - often because users can't explain what they are doing or because their behaviour is so practised that users can't articulate how they work.

But carrying out a field study has a number of difficulties. How do you select the right users? When should you observe and when should you ask questions? How do you collect observational data and how do you analyse it to improve your design?

"An excellent course, thoroughly enjoyable. The data analysing method was particularly interesting."
– Philip Merrifield, ITW Finishing.

Printable pdf course description for this seminar

This seminar is aimed at

This course is for you if you are part of a design team that wants to develop a new software application or that wants to identify new features for an existing application. This is a hands-on course and is most effective for delegates who have day-to-day responsibility for product design.

You will learn how to

• Collect rich, detailed data that will help you gain a holistic view of users and their tasks.
• Learn how to project a professional image to clients and customers.
• Target the right kind of users for potential site visits.
• Develop field study forms and checklists to quickly and accurately record observations.
• Practise techniques like KJ Analysis to quickly analyse observational data.

What delegates say about this seminar

• "Having a proper process for planning and implementing a field study (rather than an ad hoc turn-up-and-ask-questions approach) means I can present a more professional image."
• "I learnt the importance of observation and good questioning — and accurately recording what is said and done."
• "I now feel confident preparing for a site visit and asking the right kinds of questions."

What do I get when I book this course?

• 1 day training course with a usability expert.
• Practical checklists, worksheets and extensive notes to take home.
• 24/7 support to help you apply your learning.
• A proper, air-conditioned learning environment.
• CPD-approved course attendance certificate.
• A 2-course lunch and refreshments throughout the day.
• A money-back guarantee.

More details on what you get.

Duration

This course lasts one day.

About your trainer

This seminar is led by Dr. David Travis who has over 20 years experience in the field of user centred design.

In-house training

We can bring this course to you and run it for a fixed all-inclusive fee no matter where you are. All you have to do is provide the delegates and the meeting room.